Tag books

Book of the Year: All About Life, Wishes, and Death

Reg Spittle 3 Comments

My favorite book that I read in 2025 features a heartwarming friendship, unexpected twists, and a race.

Jason Cashman is 10 years old when he meets Murray McBride, a former major league baseball player who is 100.

One has a terminal illness and the other is racing to help him fulfill his five wishes before he dies.

The Five Wishes of Mr. Murray McBride, by Joe Siple, had me wishing it wouldn’t end. You’ll find out why when you read this wonderful story.

If you are looking for other ideas for your next book, see my list of reviews, with links to my reviews of the books. I read at least 50 books a year, but only post comments about ones I recommend.

I would love to hear about your favorite book of 2025; post yours in comments below. Here’s to 2026!

Gordon Korman Takes Us Back to Middle School

Reg Spittle Leave a comment

Old School is a Gordon Korman masterpiece that will surprise and delight you while delivering a profound appreciation for the elderly.

Dexter Foreman is 12 years old and lives with his grandmother in an old folks community. Home schooled, Dexter has a best friend and favorite teacher who is 99.

This is a kid who wears hand-me-downs from the old guys at the retirement home. He carries the knowledge and wisdom of people several generations his senior, but talks and acts like them too.

What do you think would happen if Dexter is forced to attend public middle school? You may have guessed that bullies would target him from day one. You are correct, but his life and the lives of his fellow students as well as folks at the retirement home take turns that may keep you reading beyond your normal bedtime.

This is a heartwarming, funny story that, like other books by Gordon Korman, caused me to want more—more of this author’s gift.

If it leaves you wanting more, there is good news. Try Korman’s The Unteachables for starters.